Things to do in Albany

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Albany Travel Guide

Photo provided by Albany County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza featuring modern architecture, a pond and a high rise building

Albany which includes heritage elements and a statue or sculpture

Albany which includes heritage architecture

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What to do in Albany

Discover the most popular places to visit in Albany

University at Albany

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit University at Albany, during your trip to McKownville. Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Times Union Center which includes a city

MVP Arena

Enjoy the sounds of some of today’s biggest performing artists or watch an exciting sports event at a stadium in the very heart of Downtown Albany.

The Egg

One of the country’s most unique buildings, this performance space is both an architectural marvel and a great place to catch a show.

Palace Theater

Old World splendor and modern performance standards meet at this renovated heritage theater located in Albany’s downtown. Tour the building or see a show.

Washington Park

Numerous activities await you in this beloved and idyllic Albany green space, a product of the city’s Golden Age in the late 1800s.

New York State Museum

Marvel at New York garnet, greet an ancient mastodon and ride a carousel at this museum that chronicles the past and present of the Empire State.

New York State Capitol Building

Perched atop Albany’s State Street hill, this ornate building has served as the seat of New York State government since the 19th century.

Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza

In Albany’s beautiful plaza, find the New York State capital center, as well as fountains, parks, shops, museums and even a world-class art collection.

Hudson River Way

This pedestrian bridge, known for its lampposts featuring historical paintings, spans Interstate 787 to connect Albany’s downtown and the Hudson River.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Albany

Downtown Albany

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Downtown Albany is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Hudson River Way and MVP Arena while you're in town.

Pine Hills

While Pine Hills might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Washington Avenue Armory Sports and Convention Arena and New York State Museum.

Mesa Verde National Park featuring desert views, landscape views and tranquil scenes

Sheridan Hollow

While visiting Sheridan Hollow, you might make a stop by sights like Washington Avenue Armory Sports and Convention Arena and Albany Institute of History and Art.

Hudson Park

While Hudson Park isn't home to many top sights, New York State Museum and The Egg are some notable places to visit nearby.

Palace Theater featuring heritage elements

Arbor Hill

While visiting Arbor Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Palace Theater and Ten Broeck Mansion.

South End

While South End isn't home to many top sights, Destroyer Escort Historical Museum and New York State Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Popular day trips from Albany

Troy

Schenectady

Frequently asked questions

Is Albany worth visiting?

Providing a mix of shopping and history, there are many things to do in Albany. When you're here, visit The Egg, a top attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Albany?

Once you've visited major attractions like New York State Museum and Albany Institute of History and Art, spend some time experiencing Albany's shopping and food scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Albany?

The top tourist attraction in Albany is The Egg, so be sure to include it on your agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Albany?

You can easily enjoy popular attractions like The Egg, New York State Museum and Albany Institute of History and Art with a three-day stay in Albany. On average, most travelers plan two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out Latham.

Is Albany a walkable city?

With popular neighborhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city center, Albany is a good place to explore on foot. Enjoy wandering between The Egg and New York State Museum. Then take a stroll around Downtown Albany, located 0.16 kilometers from downtown, and Mansion Area, which is about 0.64 kilometers away.

What are some activities to do in Albany with kids?

Planning what to do in Albany with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Albany for adults?

There's no shortage of things to do in Albany, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Empire State Plaza Convention Center or New York State Capitol Building.

Are there free things to do in Albany?

One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Albany is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on vibrant neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without taking your wallet out. Washington Street Armory is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.